1. Work Credit Requirements

SSDI is based on your work history and Social Security tax contributions.

• Work credits: You must have earned enough work credits to be insured under the SSDI program
• Most workers need 40 credits, with 20 credits earned in the last 10 years before becoming disabled
• Younger workers may qualify with fewer credits based on age at disability onset

How work credits are earned:

• In 2025, you earn 1 credit for every $1,730 in wages or self-employment income, up to 4 credits per year

2. Disability Status

SSA defines disability very strictly. To qualify, your condition must:

• Prevent you from engaging in substantial gainful activity (SGA)
• In 2025, SGA is earning more than $1,550 per month (or $2,590 per month if blind)
• Be severe, meaning it significantly limits your ability to perform basic work-related activities
• Last or be expected to last at least 12 months, or be expected to result in death

3. Qualifying Medical Condition

Your medical condition must:

• Meet or equal an impairment listed in SSA’s Listing of Impairments (Blue Book)
• Or prevent you from performing past work or any other substantial work based on your age, education, and transferable skills

Qualifying conditions include but are not limited to:

• Severe back injuries, arthritis, and joint disorders
• Heart disease and chronic respiratory conditions
• Neurological disorders such as epilepsy, multiple sclerosis, or Parkinson’s disease
• Mental health conditions like severe depression, bipolar disorder, and schizophrenia
• Cancer and immune system disorders
• Endocrine disorders such as uncontrolled diabetes with complications

4. Unable to Perform Any Substantial Work

SSA uses a five-step evaluation process:

1. Are you working above SGA level?
2. Is your condition severe?
3. Does your condition meet or equal a listed impairment?
4. Can you perform your past relevant work?
5. Can you perform any other work considering your age, education, and work experience?

You must be found disabled at Step 3, 4, or 5 to qualify for benefits.

5. Citizenship or Legal Residency

You must be:

• A U.S. citizen, or
• A lawful permanent resident or qualified noncitizen meeting SSA’s eligibility standards

Summary: SSDI Eligibility in Oregon

To qualify for SSDI in Oregon, you must:

• Have earned sufficient work credits
• Have a severe medical condition preventing substantial gainful activity
• Meet SSA’s duration and medical requirements
• Be unable to perform past work or adjust to other work